Mental health stigma is a silent battle many face, but one Cambridgeshire podcast is boldly stepping into the ring to challenge it. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about talking—it’s about reshaping how we view vulnerability, especially for men. The inaugural episode of Side by Side features Gary Clarke, a former prison officer turned mental health advocate, and Allan Hughes, co-production lead at CPSL Mind. Together, they’re dismantling stereotypes and offering a lifeline to fathers through CPSL Mind’s perinatal services, including the impactful Andy’s Man Club in Peterborough. But here’s where it gets controversial: Clarke, now a Perinatal Project Dads Worker, argues that society’s expectations of men as providers often suffocate their emotional well-being. He boldly states, ‘Life is tough, and men often feel pressure to provide, but we’re breaking that taboo. Mental health is about being the best you can be, not the best others expect.’ Hughes adds, ‘These discussions are raw, real, and timely. We’re proud to collaborate with CPSL Mind to make mental health support approachable.’ The podcast, available on CPSL Mind’s YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@cpslmind5837), will explore youth mental health and local initiatives in future episodes. Meanwhile, the CPSL Mind team will be at Cambridge United Football Club on February 14, supported by the Cambridge United Foundation, to spotlight their dedication to community mental health. But here’s the question: Can a podcast truly change societal norms? And what role should communities play in destigmatizing mental health? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this conversation is just getting started.
